1. Introduction
The efficiency of a kitchen used by the whole family can change dramatically just by how it’s organized. By carefully arranging dishes and seasonings, you can improve usability and create a space that’s comfortable for everyone in the family to use. In this article, we’ll introduce organization techniques for effectively arranging dishes and seasonings.
2. Practical Points and Specific Examples
- **”Arrange Items Based on Frequency of Use”**The key is to place everyday dishes and seasonings within easy reach. Keep frequently used mugs and plates near the sink or dishwasher, and seasonings like salt and soy sauce near the stove and prep area. Items used only for special occasions should be stored on upper shelves or in the back to maximize space usage.
- **”Place Items at Child-Friendly Heights”**Store children’s dishes and cutlery in lower drawers and shelves. Grouping lightweight plastic cups and plates in a dedicated space for children helps them develop the habit of getting their own dishes. For safety, keep knives and breakable items at heights children cannot reach.
- **”Group Seasonings by Category”**Seasonings become more accessible when grouped by purpose. Organize Japanese seasonings (soy sauce, mirin, dashi) on one tray and Western seasonings (olive oil, balsamic vinegar) on another to reduce unnecessary movement while cooking. Labeling bottles makes contents instantly recognizable and easier to manage.
- **”Balance Open and Closed Storage”**It’s effective to use “open storage” for frequently used seasonings and dishes, while keeping less-used items in “closed storage.” Transferring commonly used spices into attractive bottles near the cooking area creates both functional and beautiful storage. Keep less frequently used cooking tools in drawers to maintain a clean appearance.
- **”Creative Use of Storage Space”**Incorporate techniques to maximize kitchen storage capacity. Use adjustable-height racks and drawer dividers to increase storage efficiency. In the refrigerator, use clear boxes to separate foods and seasonings by type for easier access.
3. Important Points and Tips
When implementing organization techniques, verify that the arrangement works well for all family members. Even after deciding on an arrangement, it’s important to be flexible and make improvements if something isn’t optimal. Share organization rules with family members and maintain them together to keep the kitchen clean.
4. Summary and Next Steps
Simply organizing dishes and seasonings can transform your kitchen into a more user-friendly and comfortable space. Start by reviewing the arrangement of dishes and seasonings while considering frequency of use and family traffic patterns. Small organizational improvements are the first step toward creating a kitchen that works well for the whole family.
